Student work experience in the performing arts is important. But how can we avoid undermining the work of paid professionals while giving students the work experience they need, as volunteers? Here is a solution.
In my amateur dramatic society s last show, two of our backstage crew were students, using us as their work experience. It was win win for everyone. They got the experience for their degree/apprenticeship; we got an extra pair of hands to help behind the scenes.
We always talk about giving young people their chance; and at the same time, we want new people to come in with the passion for the arts: rather than expecting the same people in amateur societies, to do the same tasks, show after show. Student work experience in am dram societies is a way to do both.
Of course, the usual rules should apply, as for on stage performers. All under 18 s should be invited to apply to drama societies' youth sections, where they can be properly supervised. All 18+ students can help the adult societies. In either case, it s a chance for these young people to find opportunities.
In fact, I believe that amateur dramatic groups around the UK, could make long term arrangements like this, with local drama schools and universities. The Federation of Drama Schools and the National Operatic and Dramatic Association could work together, to form a strategy to make this happen UK wide.
And the same arrangement could be tried in other countries.
So that s my suggestion for an alternative source of voluntary work experience for arts students: try the am dram groups.
It can be win win for everyone.
#studentworkexperience #performingarts
